Dolphins' Mike McDaniel single-handedly sabotaged Ravens' trade deadline

The Baltimore Ravens entered the NFL trade deadline on November 5 with big aspirations. Sitting firmly in playoff contention, Baltimore wanted to bolster their defensive front by reuniting with a familiar face: Calais Campbell.

The 38-year-old defensive tackle had been a leader and key contributor during his three seasons in Baltimore from 2020 to 2022, and the Ravens believed he could provide veteran stability and production to their defensive line as they push for a Super Bowl run.

A deal between the Ravens and Miami Dolphins reportedly got close, with Baltimore set to send a 2026 fifth-round pick to Miami in exchange for Campbell. Yet, at the eleventh hour, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel stepped in and killed the trade. What an absolute buzzkill.

Mike McDaniel wouldn't let Dolphins trade Calais Campbell to the Ravens

According to reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, McDaniel vetoed the trade because he viewed Campbell as too important to Miami’s locker room and defensive front. Despite the Dolphins being just 2-6 at the time, McDaniel prioritized keeping Campbell for his leadership and on-field impact, even over gaining future draft capital.

McDaniel reportedly told Campbell directly that he couldn’t support the trade, believing that the veteran defensive tackle would be essential if Miami had any chance of turning their season around.

Since the deadline, Miami has shown signs of life, winning three straight games and improving to 5-6. Campbell’s contributions have been a big part of the Dolphins’ recent success, including a standout performance against the Rams in Week 10 where he recorded a sack and batted down two passes.

For the Ravens, missing out on Campbell was a tough pill to swallow. The 6-foot-8 veteran was a natural fit for Baltimore’s defense, given his experience and success during his prior stint with the team. His return could have added depth, versatility, and leadership to a Ravens defensive line that has dealt with injuries and inconsistency this season.

While Baltimore’s pass rush has stepped up in recent weeks (thanks to performances from Kyle Van Noy, Odafe Oweh, and Nnamdi Madubuike) Campbell’s presence could have made the unit even more frightening.

McDaniel’s decision may have worked out for Miami in the short term, but for Ravens fans, it’s hard not to feel like this was a missed opportunity to bring back one of the most respected players in the game for another playoff run.

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